“My scholarships have helped me greatly. Throughout high school I had to share a computer with five siblings. One of my first purchases here was a laptop. It’s been very useful because you can download your notes, prepare presentations, listen to lectures … the list goes on.”Rayan NahasBachelor of Pharmacy

Accommodation and living costs

Student Accommodation Services

Choosing where to live may be one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when starting at university, but it does not need to be daunting, and we offer plenty of help.

We recommend that you read the information from Student Accommodation Services if you are moving to Sydney or getting ready to move into your own place.

This website gives you advice on how to decide where to live, budgeting, public transport options and costs, as well as tips to ensure that you are aware of all your rights and responsibilities in renting.

Set-up costs for interstate or international students arriving in Sydney

This information outlines the initial set-up costs you will have when you relocate to Sydney. Please note that these figures are estimates only.

Expense/item

International student living on campus

International student living off campus

Family living off-campus (two adults plus one child)

Temporary hostel room (one week)

–

$250 ($35 p/night)

$700 ($100 p/night)

Furniture rental (one year)

–

$2080+ ($40 p/week)

$3120+ ($60 p/week)

Connecting gas, electricity, phone and internet

–

$340

$340

Rental bond (refundable)

–

$600 to $1200 (four weeks rent: $150 to $300+)

$1400 to $2,000 (four weeks rent: $350 to $500+)

Residential college bond (refundable)

$900

–

–

Total arrival costs

$900

$3270 to $3870

$5560 to $6160

Your living costs

The following table provides a rough guide to what it costs an average student to live in Sydney. Most students spend from $350 to $400 per week. Please note that these figures are estimates only.

*If you are an AusAID visa holder (576) your child pays no school tuition fee.

Here are some important notes about these costs:

All prices quoted in the tables are approximate examples and a guide only. Prices will vary depending if you are staying in a house or apartment, on the location, the size of the place and lifestyle of each person.

All amounts are in Australian dollars (AU$) and include the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in most of the prices above. GST is not refundable.

University of Sydney tuition fees are not included in the table.

Students should account for a five percent increase in living expenses each year.